Dak Prescott’s Commitment Is Undeniable, But Do the Cowboys Have What It Takes?

The Debate Around Prescott Continues

Dak Prescott remains one of the most polarizing figures among Dallas Cowboys fans. Many believe he isn’t the quarterback who will finally end the team’s 29-year Super Bowl drought. Others argue that Prescott is far from the problem, pointing instead to deeper organizational issues such as team-building flaws and misplaced priorities.

Cowboys legend Darren Woodson shares this sentiment and believes one of the biggest hurdles within the team might not be talent—but commitment.

Woodson Questions the Cowboys’ Mentality

In a recent interview with All City DLS, Woodson reflected on the winning mindset that fueled the Cowboys dynasty of the 1990s, and he’s not sure the current team has that same fire.

“(In the 1990s) you understood what the mentality was, and I’m not sure they’re there right now,” Woodson said. “That’s the problem.”

According to Woodson, winning a Super Bowl takes an almost unimaginable level of dedication, something he sees in Patrick Mahomes, who will be playing in his fourth Super Bowl this Sunday.

“Mahomes’ commitment to that organization and to those players—it takes that type of commitment,” Woodson explained. “When they see him play at the highest level, do the right things in the offseason, prepare— that’s what it takes. And I’m not sure what the Cowboys have or how they look at it.”

Dak Prescott Is Leading by Example

While Woodson questions the team’s overall dedication, he has no doubts about Prescott’s commitment.

“I know this—my office overlooks The Star’s practice field, and I see Dak Prescott out there all the damn time,” Woodson revealed. “Season ends, and two weeks later, No. 4 is out there throwing balls. Oh, I know he’s got it.”

But the real question remains: Do the rest of the Cowboys have that same level of drive?

“That’s the thing—you can’t just rely on a few guys. There’s no true offseason. The ‘offseason program’ is voluntary, but if you want to win, you show up. And I don’t know if everyone is showing up.”

The Challenge for Brian Schottenheimer

Woodson’s comments highlight one of the biggest challenges Brian Schottenheimer will face in his first season as head coach: getting the entire team to buy in.

He’s stepping into an organization where former players have hinted at priorities that sometimes don’t align with winning. For the Cowboys to reclaim their dominance, Schottenheimer must shift the culture and ensure every player shares the same level of dedication as Prescott.

Something Has to Change

One thing is certain—if the Cowboys don’t change their approach, they’ll continue to fall short. Prescott can lead by example, but it takes a full team effort to win a championship.

If Schottenheimer can’t instill a Super Bowl mentality, the Cowboys may find themselves stuck in the same cycle—talent without trophies, potential without results.